Vol. 30 No. 19 May 7, 2012 A Weekly Space Coast Business Magazine

PRESORTEDSTANDARD

US POSTAGEPAID

BREVARD BUSINESSNEWS, INC.

Please see SBA 504 Program, page 19

By Ken Datzman

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s traditional 504–loan

program, a long–term, below–market fixed–rate financing tool

designed to encourage economic development within a community,

is back in favor with a growing number of entrepreneurs and

businessowners in the region.

These bargain hunters are generally scouring the market for

commercial buildings to purchase, or are making investments in

equipment.

The program, which saw its volume of applicants fall with the

economy and the commercial real–estate downturn, is now filling a

gap in the marketplace for small–business operators seeking fixed–

asset financing.

“It’s still the best deal out there, with a ‘50–40–10’ participation

among the three parties involved,” said Timothy Cramer, executive

vice president of Florida Business Development Corp.’s Central and

North Florida regions, which include Brevard County, one of his key

markets for 504 transactions.

“It’s a very attractive program for small businesses and entrepre-

neurs. It’s a win–win–win for small business, the community, and

the participating lenders,” he added.

Typically, the 504 program includes three elements: A loan (or

first mortgage) secured with a senior lien from a private–sector

lender (such as a bank) covering up to 50 percent of the project cost;

a second mortgage secured with a junior lien from an SBA certified

development company (backed by a 100 percent SBA–guaranteed

debenture) covering up to 40 percent of the cost; and third, a

contribution of at least 10 percent equity from the small–business

borrower.

The government–guaranteed program caters to existing busi-

nesses and startups. In the case of a startup business or a special–

use building, a minimum equity contribution of 15 percent is

required.

Known as a certified development company because it plays a

role in economic growth, Cramer’s nonprofit FBDC, which is

licensed and regulated by the SBA, acts as middleman and teams

with area banks and financial institutions in making capital

available to small businesses for real estate, machinery, and

equipment purchases, as well as the refinancing of debt.

Under the 504 program, a business qualifies if it has a tangible

net worth of not more than $15 million, and an average net income

of $5 million or less, after federal income taxes for the preceding two

years prior to application.

504 loans pick upand FBDC pacesits sector in deals

Tim Cramer is executive vice president of Florida Business Development Corp.’s Central and North Florida regions. His companyis certified and regulated by the SBA and partners with area banks in the government’s 504–loan program that serves smallbusinesses. The newest ranking has FBDC leading the nation in the number of 504 loan approvals, through March 31.

BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth

BBN Brevard Business

News

MAY 7, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising InformationBREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 2

BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESSEnergyWhiz Olympics at BCC toshowcase student solar inventions

The 10th annual “EnergyWhiz Olympics,” a daylong

event showcasing student projects in alternative energy,

will get under way at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, at the

University of Central’s Florida Solar Energy Center on the

Brevard Community College campus in Cocoa.

The activities will include a Junior Solar Sprint

competition, Energy Innovations, Hydrogen Challenge,

Bright House Solar Energy Cookoff, and new this year, the

Electrathon.

More than 650 Florida elementary, middle and high

school students, from as far away as Tallahassee and

Miami, will participate in the EnergyWhiz Olympics. The

public is invited to attend free of charge.

Hands–on renewable–energy competitions will expose

students to alternative–energy fuel sources, encouraging

scientific know–how, creative thinking, experimentation

and teamwork.

The Energy Innovations program, set for 10 a.m., is a

full–scale solar electric design and marketing challenge for

middle and high school students.

Each participating team designs and constructs a

product or artistic work fully powered by photovoltaics,

also called solar–electric cells. Teams also create market-

ing pieces, such as brochures, fliers and posters, to

accompany their products.

The Hydrogen Challenge, at 10:30 a.m., is for students

in grades six through 12. It provides opportunities for

student teams to explore hydrogen through hands–on

engineering. Students demonstrate an understanding of

hydrogen through a creative–timing apparatus built with

several Rube Goldberg–type steps.

At 11:30 a.m., the Junior Solar Sprint competition will

challenge middle–school students to design, build and race

model solar cars. Awards are given based on vehicle

design, quality of craftsmanship, innovation and vehicle

speed.

The 1 p.m. Bright House Solar Energy Cookoff will

challenge students in grades four through 12 to design and

build solar cookers and cook a recipe of their own creation

using the power of the sun. In top–chef style, each dish will

be judged by a panel of experts based on taste, ingredients

and creativity.

The Electrathon is scheduled for 4 p.m. at Cocoa High

School Stadium. This competition is for high school

students and older. The go–cart–type vehicles, powered by

an electric motor and batteries, must be skillfully designed,

built and driven to maximize distance traveled within a

given time limit.

Visit www.FSEC.UCF.edu for more details about the

event. The Florida Solar Energy Center, a research

institute of UCF, is the “largest and most active state–

supported energy research institute in the nation.”

Daffodil Gala set for Aug. 18Space Coast Cancer Foundation will host its sixth

annual Daffodil Gala, themed “South Pacific Style,” on

Saturday, Aug. 18, at the Holiday Inn–Viera. This event

will include entertainment, dancing, cuisine and socializ-

ing with community leaders. For more information or to

sponsor the event, contact the foundation at 268–5504.

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BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 3

Great Brevard Duck Race for youthin crisis; ‘adopt’ a duckie for $5

COCOA — The race is on to “adopt” duckies before the

May 6 Great Brevard Duck Race, hosted by Crosswinds

Youth Services, at Sand Point Park in Titusville.

Adoptions are available at branch locations of Commu-

nity Credit Union, Florida Bank of Commerce, Florida

Business Bank, Kennedy Space Center Federal Credit

Union, Space Coast Credit Union and at select Mobil, BP

and Shell stations throughout the county.

A total of 10,000 rubber duckies are ready for adoption

in advance of the 14th annual Great Brevard Duck Race,

which is part of the Indian River Festival.

The duck race is an event for the nonprofit Crosswinds

Youth Services. The organization counts on the revenue to

help fund their community resource for children and youth

in crisis and their families. For $5, an adopted duck will be

entered in the race, with each sixth duck free of charge.

The grand prize for the event is a four–night Bahamian

cruise for up to two guests in one deluxe ocean–view

stateroom aboard the Disney Dream.

Additional prizes include a $500 and two $250 shopping

sprees at Dillard’s in Merritt Square Mall, a two–night

stay at Marriott Orlando World Center Resort, a two–night

stay for two at the International Palms Resort in Cocoa

Beach, a full–day fishing trip for two from Obsession

Charters Deep Sea Fishing from Port Canaveral, and an

aerial tour from Servant Air Ministries.

Adoptive “duck parents” do not need to be present to

win, although a cheering crowd is always on hand to shout

encouragement to the “plucky racers.”

The sunglass–bespectacled rubber racing ducks can

also be adopted at www.DuckRace.com/brevard or by

contacting Crosswinds Youth Services at 452–0800.

The Great Brevard Duck Race will begin at the boat

ramp in Sand Point Park. The sponsor of the first num-

bered duck to reach the finish line will be declared the

winner. Prizes for the next seven ducks will correspond

with their order of finish.

“The duck adoptions we receive as part of the Great

Brevard Duck Race stay in Brevard County,” said Jan

Lokay, president and chief executive officer of Crosswinds.

“They help us provide an emergency children’s shelter and

many other important programs throughout the year. We

are very grateful to our loyal sponsors who have donated

some exceptional prizes for our annual fund–raiser.”

Major sponsors of the 2012 Duck Race include PODS,

Lite Rock 99.3, Publix Super Markets Charities, Bank of

America, United Space Alliance, USA Employees’ One

Fund, Family Pediatric Clinic/Dr. Lehton & Associates,

Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, Rockledge Rotary Club,

Florida Power & Light, Nash & Kromash LLP, J.W. Edens

Insurance Agency, Atlantic Network Services, Coins &

Curiosities Inc., Paradise Ford and WFTV–9.

Art Gallery of Viera receptionA reception for an exhibit titled “Got Art?” will be held

from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, May 12, at the Art Gallery of

Viera at The Avenue. The exhibit will showcase the work

of some 30 local professional artists at the gallery. The

event is free of charge and open to the public. Refresh-

ments will be served. Visit www.ArtGalleryofViera.com.

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Business

News

BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 4

4300 Fortune Place, Suite DWest Melbourne, FL 32904

(321) 951–7777fax (321) 951–4444

BrevardBusinessNews.com

PUBLISHERAdrienne B. Roth

EDITORKen Datzman

SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITORBill Roth

Brevard Business News is published every Monday byBrevard Business News Inc. Bulk Rate postage is paid atMelbourne, FL and Cocoa, FL. This publication servesbusiness executives in Brevard County. It reports onnews, trends and ideas of interest to industry, trade,agribusiness, finance, health care, high technology,education and commerce.

Letters to the Editor must include the writer’s signatureand printed or typed name, full address and telephonenumber. Brevard Business News reserves the right to editall letters. Send your letters to: Editor, Brevard BusinessNews, 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D, West Melbourne, FL,32904, or email BrevardBusinessNews@earthlink.net.

Subscription Rates for home or office mail delivery are$26.00 for one year (52 issues). Send all addresschanges to: Circulation Department, Brevard BusinessNews, 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D, West Melbourne, FL,32904, or email BrevardBusinessNews@earthlink.net.

Kennedy Space Center partners with Florida Cleantech NetworkLists of intellectual property and laboratory facilities

with ties to the space program have just been made

available by the Florida Cleantech Acceleration Network

(FL–CAN).

The FL–CAN program also offers services that include

market assessment, Small Business Innovation Research

(SBIR) proposal development, market research expertise,

and others available at www.flcleantech.com.

FL–CAN has collaborated with several Florida

universities, and now NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, to

provide access to an extended list of more than 450

intellectual properties (IP) and 60 laboratory facilities

capable of supporting efforts in clean–technology indus-

tries.

These lists and other FL–CAN services were estab-

lished to bring entrepreneurs, innovators, companies and

researchers together to form a network for clean–technol-

ogy advancements.

“FL–CAN is always working to add to our already

extensive network in order to help more and more

individuals and companies in the clean technology field,”

UCF, The Technological Research and Development

Authority, and the Florida Energy Systems Consortium.

UCF is a research university that ranks as the second

largest in the nation with more than 58,000 students.

UCF’s first classes were offered in 1968. For more informa-

tion, visit http://news.ucf.edu.

The TRDA in Melbourne works with early stage

technology companies and entrepreneurs to accelerate

their business planning, fund–raising efforts, business–

development strategies and growth.

Since its inception in 1987, TRDA has mentored

hundreds of technology entrepreneurs and has supported

more than 175 new technology companies that have

created over 1,350 high–wage jobs throughout Florida.

In May 2007, the TRDA opened a 31,000–square–foot

incubator in Melbourne that currently provides facilities

and business–development services to early stage technol-

ogy companies in sectors that include clean energy,

software, wireless, IT, semiconductor, biotechnology and

other high–tech industries. For more information, visit

www.TRDA.org.

The FESC was created in 2008 by Florida statute to

promote collaboration among the energy experts at the

state’s 11 public universities for the purposes of sharing

energy–related expertise and assisting in the development

and implementation of a comprehensive energy strategic

plan for Florida.

The consortium is charged with performing research

and development on innovative energy systems that lead

to alternative–energy strategies, improved energy

efficiencies, and expanded economic development for the

state. To kick off this program, the legislature provided $40

million for energy research, education, outreach, and

technology commercialization at five of the Florida

universities. Visit www.floridaenergy.ufl.edu to learn more

about FESC.

said Thomas O’Neal, associate vice president for research

and commercialization at the University of Central Florida

in Orlando, and the principal investigator on the FL–CAN

project.

The updated list now includes facilities equipped for

creating weather forecasting algorithms, next–generation

telecommunications, 3–D models, and more.

One example of the NASA facilities at

www.flcleantech.com/our–services/lab–network–universi-

ties is the Experimental Imaging Laboratory (EI Lab), he

said.

The EI Lab explores current and emerging technologies

and characterizes camera, lens, recorder, and tracking

methods, with a long list of available services. Another

example is the Flight Experiment Development Labora-

tory, which helps scientists develop their experiments into

space shuttle or International Space Station payloads.

With the FL–CAN program, companies and entrepre-

neurs can pursue commercialization projects that are

based on clean–technology research coming out of NASA–

KSC, as well as the Florida State University System.

The recently added space center’s intellectual property

is categorized into several subject areas, such as materials,

environmental, electronics, cryogenics and corrosion. These

and the rest of the cataloged intellectual properties can be

viewed at www.FlCleanTech.com/our–services/ip–catalog.

If you’d like more information, visit

www.flcleantech.com or contact Ian Grant at (407) 882–

0345 or send an e–mail to Ian.Grant@ucf.edu.

FL–CAN program links Florida–based universities,

incubation networks, investors and industry resources

together to create a network of “proof–of– concept” centers

to accelerate the creation and commercialization of

innovative clean technology research into new technology

companies or to license into existing firms.

FL–CAN is administered via a partnership between

Longtime State Attorney Wolfinger says he will not seek re–electionState Attorney Norman Wolfinger announced that he would not be seeking re–election to the post which he has held

for the past 27 years. “To go into the courtroom and fight for others, to help protect your community and help the victims

of crime move forward with their lives is a fantastic reward,” said Wolfinger, 66.

He said there is a “tremendous team in place, actually one of the most experienced staffs in the state. They are

extremely dedicated to justice. In addition to the seasoned veterans, there are young attorneys who have such potential

and such energy that they will be using to serve this community in the years to come.”

Wolfinger added, “It has been an honor to hold this post, and I thank the people of Brevard and Seminole counties for

the privilege they have granted me.”

He said he intends to work hard, serve others, and appreciate and “enjoy each and every day” left in his term.

Health First to host its fourth annual ‘Operation CPR’ at stadium in VieraKnowing CPR can be the difference between life and death at the office, in your home, or on your child’s ball field. On

Saturday, June 9, Health First is helping you make that difference. Gates open at 8 a.m. Health First will launch its

fourth annual “Operation CPR” at Space Coast Stadium in Viera. The event is free of charge.

Individuals will be trained in the life–saving skill of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, as well as the proper use of an

automated external defibrillator. Children ages 5 and above are welcome along with individuals and groups. Registration

is required to participate. Visit www.OperationCPR.org to register for the program.

Other activities and displays will include a Brevard Zoo education station, a balloon artist and a magician.

Individuals who complete the group training provided by The Training Center of Health First will receive a certificate

for the American Heart Association’s “Friends and Family CPR Training” program, in addition to a free “Trained to Save

a Life” T–shirt, one free ticket voucher to either the July 4 or July 9 Brevard County Manatees game, as well as a

certificate for a free personal gourmet pizza from Pizza Gallery & Grill.

Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationMAY 7, 2012 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 5

BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESS

‘You cannot hold me responsible for the consequencesof the fact that they reacted poorly.’

To Be Continued ...

BCC’s new STEM annex boostshigh–tech careers; trains workers

Brevard Community College has increased its commit-

ment to enhance careers in the high–paying fields of

science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with

the opening April 24 of its new STEM annex on the Cocoa

campus.

The 8,500–square–foot facility, which contains two

classrooms and four specialized laboratories, is tailored to

educate students in emerging industries and provide

customized training for employees at Brevard companies.

For example, the faculty is in the process of training

about 170 employees of Brazilian jet–maker Embraer in

the fundamentals of aviation maintenance as the firm

continues to expand its operations at Melbourne Interna-

tional Airport.

In all, BCC’s Corporate Services program has trained

about 2,500 STEM workers for 44 companies and agencies

the past five years in fields including aerospace, aviation,

computers, biomedicine and manufacturing.

“The goal of our new STEM building could not be more

important nor come at a more critical time for our commu-

nity,” said BCC President Dr. Jim Richey. “We want to

prepare our students for jobs in the fastest–growing high–

technology fields in the Brevard and Florida economies —

indeed, in the global economy — and to work closely with

local businesses to make certain they have the best work

force anywhere.

He added, “That makes the college’s science, technology,

engineering and math programs central elements in

helping Brevard’s rebounding economy, and makes the

STEM building a new focal point in that effort.”

Studies show the value of a STEM education and how

demand is far outstripping the supply of STEM graduates

in the U.S. and Florida. The National Association of

Colleges and Employers has found that engineering

diplomas account for 12 of the 15 top–paying majors, with

graduates in computer sciences earning an average salary

of $61,400.

However, a 2011 report from Gov. Rick Scott shows that

less than 20 percent of Florida university graduates will

earn at STEM degree. The report also said the rate of

STEM graduates will not fill the estimated 120,000 high–

tech jobs Florida will create by 2018.

BCC’s new STEM annex is geared to address those

concerns by inspiring students to enter STEM fields and

give those already in the work force new skills, Richey said.

“This facility gives the college the ability to react

quickly to fast–changing economic and work–force needs,

and contribute to the cycle of business success,” he said.

“That’s shown by our worker–training partnership with

Embraer, which recently announced it would base its first

North American engineering and design center at the

Melbourne airport.”

The new center, in turn, “could draw more companies

and workers to Brevard — workers that BCC’s STEM

programs and this facility could also help educate and

train,” Richey added.

The grand opening of the annex was attended by

business leaders in the community. For more information,

contact Frank Margiotta, executive director of technical

and professional training, at 433–7515 or send an e–mail

message to margiottaf@brevardcc.edu.

Margaret RothGraduate StudentJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore, Maryland

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BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 7

New solar panels will power BHN’sdigital Doppler radar tower sites

ORLANDO — Bright House Networks is going green

just in time for Earth Day. The company has just com-

pleted the installation of a solar–energy system that will

“completely power” one of its Doppler Radar sites in

Brevard County.

The Doppler Tower is used by Bright House Networks’

Bay News 9 and Central Florida News 13 news channels

to “give the most accurate and real time weather informa-

tion to their viewers.”

The new solar system is expected to produce roughly

43,000 kilowatt–hours of clean energy every year using

more than 130 photovoltaic panels. The new initiative “will

supply more than enough to power” the Doppler site in

Cocoa year–round. The output is enough electricity to

power roughly 3.8 average single–family homes per year,

said Mike Robertson, senior vice president of Florida

operations for Bright House Networks.

Work is also under way to convert one of Bright House

Networks’ major facilities in the Tampa area to solar as

well, he said.

Using 88 solar panels that will be mounted to the roof of

the company’s Riverview building, the Florida sunshine

will generate roughly 28,000 kilowatt hours annually —

enough energy to power about 2.5 average single family

homes per year.

“We are thrilled to introduce this new high–powered

solar system, just in time to celebrate Earth Day,” said

Robertson. “This clean–energy system is part of Bright

House Networks commitment to being a good steward in

the communities we serve, and we are eager to continue

increasing our efforts to become more environmentally

conscious.”

In addition, Bright House Networks is helping support

area businesses by working with BlueChip Energy LLC to

build, supply and install the clean– energy system.

BlueChip is based in Lake Mary.

BlueChip Energy’s two flagship utility–scale solar

projects, the Rinehart Solar Farm and the Sorrento Solar

Farm, are approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory

Commission as self–certified small–power production

facilities, or “qualified facilities” in 2011, requiring the local

utility to provide interconnection to them and purchase the

electricity they produce.

Brevard Rescue Mission tops $100,000 goalBrevard Rescue Mission had record–breaking atten-

dance at the third annual “Women Who Care Luncheon,”

on Friday, April 20, at the Hilton Melbourne Rialto. With

the generosity of BRM’s corporate sponsors and nearly 400

women attendees, the nonprofit organization exceeded its

$100,000 fund–raising goal. BRM works to permanently

“break the cycle of homelessness by providing homeless

women with children housing, access to health care,

transportation, education, nutrition, job training and life

skills in a safe, Christ–centered residential setting.”

Donated funds provide housing, education, transportation,

counseling, medical care, parent training, household

budgeting, tutoring, job training, food and clothing, and

case–manager support services. Call 480–9100 or visit

www.BrevardRescueMission.org for more information.

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BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 8

Coastal Mechanical Services tohonor first apprenticeship class

Coastal Mechanical Services will celebrate the gradua-

tion of its first apprenticeship class at 6 p.m. on May 31 at

Front Street Civic Center in Melbourne.

Four years ago, in August of 2008, Coastal started All–

Florida Apprenticeship (AFA), an in–house apprenticeship

program.

AFA is registered with the Florida Department of

Education, Division of Workforce Education. AFA is also

an accredited Training Sponsor with the National Center

for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

AFA is a four–year (8,000 hours) program where upon

completion apprentices are nationally recognized as skilled

Journeyman in one of the following crafts: sheet metal,

pipefitting, plumbing, electrical or heating, ventilation and

cooling.

Throughout the program, AFA teaches both technical

and soft skills, including classes on leadership, communi-

cation and teamwork. Following graduation, apprentices

will take county tests to become licensed journeymen in

their trades.

A looming labor shortage in skilled labor, combined

with limited craft–training opportunities available across

the state, prompted Coastal Mechanical to build its own

apprenticeship program.

“Our apprenticeship program secures the future of

Coastal Mechanical,” said P.J. Goodwin, company presi-

dent. “It ensures our employees are the best trained, most

qualified craftsmen out there.”

Two apprentices will graduate from the plumbing

program: Robert Birnie of Melbourne and Mike O’Brien of

St. Cloud.

Seven apprentices will graduate from the sheet–metal

program: Xavier Alba, Melbourne; Michael Bach, Palm

Bay; Mark Daniels, West Melbourne; Brandon Fincham,

Palm Bay; Billy Graham, Palm Bay; Matt Hoskins,

Melbourne; and Erik Mayrhauser Sr., Palm Bay.

Old Red Eye Golf Tournament setThe 22nd annual Old Red Eye Spring Golf Tourna-

ment, to benefit the Brevard Rugby Club and Big Brothers

Big Sisters of Central Florida, will get under way at 8 a.m.

on Saturday, May 12, at Sebastian Municipal Golf Club.

The fee is $70 per player (includes range balls, cart use,

greens fees, and a post–tournament awards luncheon and

raffle). The field is limited to 144 players. Make checks

payable to BRFC and mail to P.O. Box 60431, Palm Bay,

Fla., 32906. The pre–tournament party is from 6 to 10 p.m.

on Friday, May 11, at Beef O’Brady’s in Palm Bay, located

next to K–Mart, at the intersection of Palm Bay Road and

Babcock. For additional details or to sign–up for the

tournament, call Corkey at 626–3357.

Schweinsberg to address women’s groupThe League of Women Voters of the Space Coast will

host a “Timely Topics Luncheon” at 11:30 a.m. on Wednes-

day, May 16, at Tuscany Grill, 7640 N. Wickham Road, in

Suntree. The program is titled “The Future of the Brevard

County Library System.” Catherine Schweinsberg, director

of the Brevard County Library System, will be the guest

speaker. The luncheon is $20 and the public is invited. For

reservations, call Doreen Archer at 622–4071, by May 13.

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BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESSGlenn’s Tire mechanic JustinChristy earns master certification

Glenn’s Tire & Service Co. in Melbourne has announced

that Justin Christy, lead technician in the mechanical

service department, has received the Master Automobile

Technician (MAT) certification.

The certification was awarded by The National

Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NIASE),

commonly known as ASE.

Christy joined the Glenn’s Tire & Service team as an

automotive technician in 2007. He brings 12 years of

technical experience to his position.

Before earning this most recent designation, he held

two ASE certifications. In the five years since joining the

company, Christy received the six necessary additional

ASE certifications, earning him the Master Automobile

Technician designation. He becomes one of 87,580 certified

Master Automobile Technicians in the U.S.

“We are extremely proud of Justin’s achievement in

earning his ASE Master certification,” said Randy

Carmichael, president of Glenn’s Tire and Service Co. “It is

a pleasure to work with a person who is so driven to learn

and grow in his chosen profession. We look forward to

continuing to help Justin pursue additional achievements

in the rapidly changing automotive service field.”

MAT is one of the highest levels of certification a

professional auto mechanic can achieve. According to the

NIASE, it is reserved for, “the best–of– the best.”

When not working or studying, Christy says he spends

time with his 7–year–old daughter and participates in a

“wide variety of outdoor sports” such as fishing and

hunting, which they frequently enjoy together.

The NIASE was established in 1972 as a nonprofit

organization to help improve the quality of automotive

service and repair through voluntary testing and certifica-

tion of automotive technicians and parts specialists.

Today, there are more than 350,000 ASE–certified

professionals at work in dealerships, independent shops,

collision–repair shops, auto–parts stores, fleets, schools

and colleges throughout the country.

Since 1952, Glenn’s Tire & Service Co. has provided

“quality service for automobiles, recreational vehicles and

commercial–fleet vehicles.” The company offers tires by

Michelin, Bridgestone, Firestone, Goodyear and other

brands. Mechanical repair and general maintenance

services include brake repair, wheel alignment, factory–

scheduled maintenance, tune–ups, and engine–repair

services for all vehicles weighing up to one ton.

Heavy–truck wheel alignment, suspension repair, and

Department of Transportation inspections are also

available at Glenn’s. The business is located at 2726 S.

Harbor City Blvd., a mile south of the Melbourne Cause-

way on Highway U.S. 1. Visit www.GlennsTire.com.

Free membership for Young EaglesYoung Eagles under age 18 are eligible for a free EAA

student membership. All you need to do is register.

Membership includes the “EAA Sport Aviation” magazine

online, e–newsletters, free admission to 300–plus science

and technology museums, and more. The membership is

made possible by Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University.

To register, visit https://secure.EAA.org/apps/student.

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BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 10

By Ken Datzman

Stacia Glavas is using the skills she honed as a

successful businesswoman in the Washington, D.C.,

market building her new venture in this region.

Brevard Rescue Mission is a highly structured

residential program she founded that aims to break

the cycle of homelessness for single women with

children. But it is not a government program, she

said.

“Our funding is from businesses, churches, civic

groups and individuals. We run this like a business.

So every resource, every dollar is maximized. We are

always looking at the cost benefit of everything we

do at Brevard Rescue Mission. We are accountable

to our stakeholders,” said Glavas, who has an MBA

degree from George Washington University.

Glavas, president of Brevard Rescue Mission, is

also a 2009 master’s of divinity graduate, earning

her degree from Asbury Theological Seminary’s

Orlando campus.

Twenty years ago, Glavas, looking for a business

opportunity, purchased the Maid Brigade Inc.

franchise rights for the D.C. Metro territory and on

built the residential cleaning company into a

thriving enterprise, starting with three employees.

She ran it for 10 years before turning the reins

over to her husband, Pete Glavas, a former lawyer.

He now operates the business — which has 135

employees — from Brevard County.

As a nonprofit entrepreneur on a new career

path, Stacia Glavas opened Brevard Rescue Mission

30 months ago, and already is making an impact in

the community by putting people on the track to

financial independence.

“It went way beyond myself. There are many

people involved in the organization. They all have

the same vision for what we are trying to do in the

community. The whole concept is to break the cycle

of homelessness so that their kids don’t grow up in

the same environment depending on handouts and

the government.”

Stacia Glavas said she and her husband reached

out to a struggling young mother and her child a

number of years ago in Rockledge and “we felt our

lives had been changed at that moment.”

Brevard Rescue Mission is housed in a two–

building, 12–unit residential apartment complex.

Called “Casa Carol,” one the buildings was con-

structed in the 1920s. The 12– to 24–month

residential program is designed to develop a range of

skills and transform families from dependency to

self–sufficiency through daily accountability,

personal responsibility, and goal–setting.

“It’s a place to help rebuild their lives, in a highly

Businesswoman Glavas starts second career with founding ofBrevard Rescue Mission, reaches out to homeless women andchildren rebuilding their lives; graduates its first four families

structured environment,” said Stacia Glavas. Once

they gain employment, the residents lease the

apartments from Brevard Rescue Mission.

Every three months, the residents are assessed in

10 different areas of the program, including budget-

ing, job–readiness, parenting, and hygiene.

The organization tries to set itself off from other

nonprofit entities in the county that help women

with children. “We are a faith–based organization,”

said Meredith Sutton, board chairwoman of Brevard

Rescue Mission. “One of our goals is to help women

get off government assistance. We have a high level

of accountability that we require from the residents

who are here.”

The program is open to women, over 18 years of

age, with one to three children, said Stacia Glavas.

“One of the things about our program is that we

really get involved in their lives. We help put their

lives back together.” She says it’s not a transitional

living facility.

Brevard Rescue Mission uses a four–step

approach turning around the lives of their residents.

“Stabilize, strategize, strengthen, and send forth are

the four phases,” said Stacia Glavas. “Each phase of

the program is comprehensive. For example, the

first phase focuses on vocational assessment. We

move them through each phase before they graduate

from the program.”

On–site general educational development

tutoring is a key part of the program. “Once they

complete the stabilization and strategy stages, they

spend 40 hours a week, if they are not working,

preparing for the GED,” said Stacia Glavas.

The GED tutors are professionals in the commu-

nity, including lawyers, people with medical

backgrounds and retired teachers. “It’s awesome to

have that one–on–one tutoring. You can’t become

self–sufficient if you don’t have a GED. And it’s

pretty challenging with just a GED,” she said.

Stacia Glavas, whose organization partners with

Circles of Care, Brevard Community College,

Brevard Public Schools, LEAD Brevard, and other

entities to provide services in various areas of the

program, said three Brevard Rescue Mission

residents have earned their GED certificate since

the program was started.

One resident’s eighth–grade daughter was just

accepted into Florida’s “Take Stock in Children”

program, she said. “As long as she maintains a

minimum 2.5 grade–point average through high

school, she’ll have her first two years of college paid

for by BCC.”

Take Stock in Children provides a unique

opportunity for low–income and at–risk students to

escape the cycle of poverty through education.

Stacia Glavas added that residents can attend

BCC free of charge as long as they are in the Brevard Rescue Mission

program. “We have one resident targeted to go there this summer.”

LEAD Brevard, which stands for Lead, Engage, Achieve and

Develop, is also working with Brevard Rescue Mission. “LEAD Brevard

is creating an internship program for our residents,” said Meredith

Sutton, whose husband, businessman Fred Sutton, is a longtime

commercial real–estate developer in the county.

“One thing that is very important is to have some kind of work

experience. Many of the women at Brevard Rescue Mission do not have

that experience. While they are in the program, they will have the

opportunity to intern for a business in the area. That will be a great

experience for them. We depend upon the business community to do

those kinds of things for our organization,” said Meredith Sutton.

The business community has stepped up to support Brevard Rescue

Mission with a broad range of services, said Stacia Glavas. “The

support has been uplifting.”

Brevard Rescue Mission’s work is paying off in the community. The

first four residents have “graduated” from the program, said Stacia

Glavas. “We call a graduate someone who has made it all the way

through the program. Every area of their life is stable–to–thriving.”

Stacia Glavas, right, is president of Brevard Rescue Mission, an organization shefounded 30 months ago. The 12– to 24–month residential program uses a four–prong approach: stabilize, strategize, strengthen, and send forth. MeredithSutton is Brevard Rescue Mission’s chairwoman.

BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth

Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationMAY 7, 2012

BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESS

BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 11

By Ken Datzman

Keiser University, which opened 35 years ago in

Fort Lauderdale with one enrollee and has grown to

18,000 students at 14 campuses statewide, has been

awarded the highest accreditation by the Commis-

sion on Colleges of the Southern Association of

Colleges and Schools.

In March, the not–for–profit university received

what is known in the world of education as “Level

VI” accreditation by SACS, recognizing approval of

the expansion of the school’s doctoral programs.

“It’s a big achievement for the university,” said

Elana Pate, director of admissions for Keiser

University in Melbourne, where more than 1,000

students are enrolled.

“Only a small number of schools in Florida have

this accreditation. We are now at the same level of

accreditation as UF. We will be offering more

master’s and doctoral programs soon at all of our

campuses. We’re excited about that.”

A recent report by the Washington Economics

Group said Keiser University has a $542 million

annual economic impact on Florida’s economy and

helps meet the state’s higher education and work–

force needs. University operations in Florida support

more than 19,000 jobs.

Keiser University’s Office of Student Services

estimates that roughly 85 percent of all graduates

remain in Florida once they complete their educa-

tion.

Keiser University has doctoral programs in

business administration, educational leadership,

instructional design and technology, and psychology,

as well as other disciplines at various campuses.

The university’s Graduate School opened in 2006

and also offers a variety of master’s degrees includ-

ing the MBA, master’s in physician assistant,

nursing, and information security, among other

fields. The MBA degree is also taught in both the

Spanish and Mandarin languages.

Keiser University’s educational reach extends

globally through its international programs includ-

ing the Latin Division, a cooperative agreement in

the Eastern European nation of Moldova, and a

campus in Shanghai, China.

“We now have our own campus in China,” said

Kimberly Dale, regional director of media and public

relations for Keiser University. “We’re excited about

that. We’re working on lots of different opportunities

for our students to experience China for a semester.”

Most of the school’s upper–level graduate

programs are offered either entirely online or in a

hybrid format combining both on–campus and

online–delivery methods to accommodate the varied

Keiser University awarded top regional accreditation, milestoneachievement for 35–year–old institution; introduces a bachelor’sdegree that lets students customize their curriculum to meet goals

schedules of adult professionals.

“Sixty percent of our students are 25 years of age

and older,” said Dale. “We’re trying to make it as

convenient as possible for them to pursue higher

education.”

One of the university’s most popular degree

programs is culinary arts. Launched in the mid–

1990s, Keiser University’s Center for Culinary Arts

operates in Melbourne, Tallahassee, and Sarasota.

“It’s been a huge success and really shows our focus

on career–oriented education,” said Dale.

Keiser University, long known for producing

work–force–ready graduates in high–demand fields,

has introduced a new bachelor’s degree that puts the

adult learner in the driver’s seat, building his or her

own curriculum and allowing broad exposure to

multiple disciplines.

The school’s bachelor’s of science degree in

interdisciplinary studies is “basically a design–your–

own degree,” said Don Vest, associate dean of

academic affairs at Keiser University in Melbourne.

“The student picks two different areas of concentra-

tion. There are five classes required in each of those

core disciplines.”

He added, “It’s a very flexible degree program.

Most of the upper–level credits are electives, so the

student can pick and choose what best fits their

career goals.”

The disciplines include business administration,

health–services administration, criminal justice,

information technology, culinary arts, and manage-

ment–information systems.

In general, the 120–credit–hour degree provides

the opportunity for students to plan and pursue

broader interdisciplinary programs than the normal

major and minor.

Students can design a course of study that meets

their personal academic objectives and furthers their

professional growth and development by combining

two disciplines, such as business and technology,

into a coherent program, he said.

“I changed my major two or three times before I

decided my career path in college. I wish there had

been a program like this when I attended college,”

said Vest, who earned his bachelor’s degree in

computer studies from the University of Maryland

and is a U.S. Air Force veteran.

“The interdisciplinary program is already

growing in popularity,” added Pate.

“We’re hoping more people learn of the advan-

tages and the opportunities they have pursuing this

degree, and that it will become one of our largest

programs.”

She said a lot of adult learners have earned

“numerous credits from different institutions but for

whatever reason — relocating, military service, or

other obligations — have not been able to finish their degree.”

“They are able to bring their credits to Keiser University. The

interdisciplinary studies program is perfect for them. It cuts the time

they are going to be in school. It gives them the ability to build on what

they have already earned at other institutions and allows them to

finish their degree.”

Soon, college campuses around the nation will be conducting

graduation ceremonies, with a new crop of freshly minted degree

holders set to enter the job market.

There is good news for them, too. Employers expect to hire 10.2

percent more new college graduates from the Class of 2012 than they

did from the Class of 2011, according to a study released in March by

the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

That’s up from the 9.5 percent hiring increase they projected for the

Class of 2012 when polled in September. According to results of

NACE’s “Job Outlook Spring Update Survey,” this is the second

consecutive year in which employers have adjusted their hiring

expectations upward.

Elana Pate is director of admissions at Keiser University in Melbourne. Don Vestis associate dean of academic affairs. Their institution is now a Level IV SACS–accredited university, recognizing approval of the expansion of its doctoralprograms. Globally minded Keiser University, which operates statewide, nowhas its own campus in Shanghai, China.

BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth

MAY 7, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising Information

BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESS

BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 12

BJ’s Charitable Giving Foundationsupports nonprofit Club Esteem

Club Esteem recently announced it has received $5,000

from BJ’s Charitable Giving Foundation.

Mike Roberts, general manager for BJ’s Wholesale

Club on Palm Bay Road, presented the check to Club

Esteem’s Executive Director Ellena Little.

“On behalf of the children who attend Club Esteem and

their families, as well as our staff and our board, we would

like to thank BJ’s for their support, said Little. “BJ’s

generosity will help us continue to make a difference in the

lives of those we serve.”

A number of community leaders were present for the

check presentation. They included John Mazziotti, Palm

Bay mayor; Denise Carter, Melbourne Housing and Urban

Development; Jennifer Ottomanelli, Club Esteem fund–

development director; Michael Welch Jr., Club Esteem

board of directors; Andrew Michalets, Club Esteem board

president; Lisa Cardin, BJ’s Wholesale Club, community

relations; Richard Miller, Club Esteem board vice presi-

dent; and Okie Baughman, president of the Harris

Retirees Organization.

Club Esteem’s mission is to inspire children and

families from economically disadvantaged communities to

embrace the highest standards of academic and personal

excellence.

The organization “fulfills a significant need” in the

Lipscomb Park area by providing more than 100 children

free academic and personal after–school enrichment

activities, said Little, citing homework help, tutoring in

core subjects, life–skills classes, private music lessons,

science, technology, engineering and math programming,

and SAT, ACT and FCAT Test Prep.

Through such opportunities, Club Esteem “hopes to

break the cycle of poverty and enable children in this

community to become healthy, productive, vision–driven

adults.”

Club Esteem has achieved “phenomenal success with

the students they serve,” she said. Last school year, 94

percent of Club Esteem students scored at or above grade

level in both reading and math; 84 percent of Club Esteem

students made their school honor roll, Little said.

In the past two years, Club Esteem has had 16

graduating seniors, of which 15 enrolled in college. One

graduate enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Little said Club

Esteem was “delighted to learn” that one of its upcoming

graduating seniors, Aaron Jordan, has been awarded the

Bill Gates Millennium Scholarship. This scholarship

covers 100 percent tuition through college graduation.

Applicants are chosen based on their academic achieve-

ments, community service, and leadership potential.

Jordan’s award “is a testimony to the excellent work that

occurs at Club Esteem.” Club Esteem strives to ensure

that every student achieves both academic and personal

excellence, regardless of their economic circumstances, she

said.

“I am so excited for Aaron. He has been a member of

Club Esteem for the past five years and is one of our

exemplary members. It is such a blessing to see all of the

hard work pay off.”

If you wish to volunteer with the organization, contact

Little at 409–8942 or send an e–mail message to

ellenalittle@clubesteem.org.

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Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationMAY 7, 2012 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 13

BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESSEvans Center project wins approvalfor community tax credit program

Evans Center, a proposed model neighborhood market

and job– training center currently being managed through

the development phase by the Brevard Neighborhood

Development Coalition (BNDC), has been approved for

participation in the Community Contribution Tax Credit

Program.

Evans Center is one of only two nonprofits in the county

to have been granted this tax–credit program, which offers

any business in Florida a tax credit of up to 50 percent of

the value of their contribution to the organization.

“It is a ‘win–win’ for both the nonprofit and the donor,”

said BNDC Director Lynn Brockwell–Carey.

The opportunity is beneficial to businesses that pay

Florida corporate income taxes, Florida insurance pre-

mium taxes and any business that collects and remits sale

taxes. The latter will receive a cash refund instead of tax

credits.

Donations made payable directly to Evans Center

qualify for the tax credit program. BNDC will help the

donor with the “simple” application required to receive the

tax advantages, said Brockwell–Carey. Applications must

be sent to Tallahassee between July 2 and 16 of this year.

BNDC, “Florida Today’s” 2009 “Organization of the

Year,” has partnered with Powell Subdivision Neighbor-

hood Watch, the Congregations for Community Action,

and the City of Palm Bay to help build a market and deli,

job–training facility and health clinic at the site of a

shuttered corner grocery.

The facility will serve the Powell and Driskell Heights

subdivisions, both low–income, African–American

neighborhoods. The health clinic will be operated by the

Brevard Health Alliance to replace a mobile unit that is

only able to serve the community once a week. Opening for

the Evans Center is slated for 2013.

The Evans Center has already achieved 501(c)(3)

status; the Evans board qualifies as a community–based

development organization with Housing and Urban

Development.

The accessibility of the new store will be a “boom to

these individuals,” many of whom are elderly residents or

young parents who in order to buy staples, must currently

travel almost 1.5 miles to a Walmart Neighborhood

Market.

For more information about the project, contact

Brockwell–Carey at 253–4214.

Jewish Federation to host private showingThe Jewish Federation of Brevard Inc. will present

“Dollar Movie Night” at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 17, at

the Oaks Theatre, 1800 W. Hibiscus Blvd., in Melbourne.

The event will feature a private showing of “In Darkness,”

a 2012 Academy Award nominee for “Best Foreign

Language Film.” The movie is directed by Agnieszka

Holland. “In Darkness” is based on a true story, one that

centers on survival. Call the Jewish Federation office at

951–1836 to reserve tickets for the movie. Attendees are

asked to bring non–perishable, non–expired items for the

food pantry. Those who bring these items will be eligible to

receive either an “instant prize” or entry into prize

drawings.

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Brevard County Catholic Schools’ free Voluntary Prekindergarten Program (VPK)

prepares your child with the knowledge and skills for Kindergarten readiness.

The loving and nurturing environment of a Catholic school gives your child a

Our degreed teachers instill a love of learning with fun hands-on activities which incorporate net pads and iPads.

VPK curriculum meets and exceeds Florida Next Generation standards.

Students grow in their faith through weekly mass and daily prayer.

physical education.

Eight Catholic schools serve students in Pre-K3 and VPK through 8th grade.Melbourne Ascension Catholic Schoolascensioncatholicsch.org(321) 254-1595

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School

(321) 723-3631

Palm BaySt. Joseph Catholic Schoolst-joe.org(321) 723-8866

IndialanticHoly Name of Jesus Catholic School

(321) 773-1630

RockledgeSt. Mary’s Catholic Schoolstmarys-school.org(321) 636-4208

Divine MercyCatholic Academydmccs.org(321) 452-0263

Cocoa BeachOur Savior Catholic Schooloursaviourschool.org(321) 783-2330

TitusvilleSt. Teresa Catholic School

(321) 267-1643

Visit BrevardCatholicSchools.org for information about VPK registration.

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MAY 7, 2012Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising InformationBREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 14

BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESSCPA Nemeroff of Berman Hopkins addressesnational conference in Illinois about audits

Brian Nemeroff, audit partner at area firm Berman Hopkins Wright & LaHam CPAs

and Associates, was a speaker at the recent North Central Regional Council of the

National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials meeting in Peoria, Ill.

NAHRO consists of housing and community–development agencies and officials

throughout the United States. Its mission is to “provide decent, safe, affordable housing,

and viable communities that enhance the quality of life for all Americans, especially those

of low– and moderate–income.”

At the conference, Nemeroff shared his expertise about the most common rejection

comments, both unaudited and audited, for Housing Authorities. He presented a “simple

checklist” to prevent the most common exceptions from the Real Estate Assessment

Center analysts.

Nemeroff has been an expert in Housing Authority Audits for 17 years and has written

numerous articles. He has been a presenter for various governmental organizations

including the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials, Florida

Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and Government Finance Officers Association.

Record number of Florida films to highlightfestival on May 19 at Palm Bay Dollar Movies

The fourth “15–Minutes of Fame” film festival will take place on Saturday, May 19, at

Palm Bay Dollar Movies, 160 Malabar Road.

The festival will showcase more than 50 short films, produced by independent film-

makers from around the world. Festival directors Ray and Migdalia Etheridge report that

about half of the films were made in Florida, and that several filmmakers will be on hand

to introduce their films to the audience.

“We received more outstanding Florida entries this year then ever before, including

some from Brevard County,” said Migdalia Etheridge. “Many of the films were produced

by students at Florida State University, with other entries coming from Full Sail, Dodge

College, and other film schools from around the state.”

The genres include comedy, drama, and documentaries. All of the films are less than

15 minutes in length, and will be shown in two–hour blocks. Show times are at 1 p.m.,

3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., and each showing contains different films.

“You could stay all day and never see the same film twice,” said Migdalia Etheridge.

Admission is $2 per show. For further information, visit www.may2012.weebly.com.

Upstart Shower Shirt Co. partners with theCancer Care Centers of Brevard Foundation

The Shower Shirt Co. recently joined the Cancer Care Centers of Brevard Foundation

as a corporate sponsor, to support the foundation in improving the lives of Brevard County

individuals and families who have been affected by cancer.

CCCF, founded in 1993 by Dr. Silas Charles, was established to assist individuals

within the Brevard and Indian River communities who have been touched by cancer.

As a nonprofit organization striving to provide comprehensive patient and family

support services, community outreach and education, CCCF was recognized as the

“Organization of the Year for 2004” by “Florida Today,” for efforts in assisting cancer

patients and the local community in coping with cancer.

“Our hope is not only to assist the underinsured or uninsured cancer patient, alleviat-

ing them of their financial burdens in order to allow them to focus on healing, but to also

provide education to empower them,” said Marta Fiol, the foundation’s secretary.

The Shower Shirt Co. created the “first and only” water–resistant garment to protect

mastectomy patients post–surgery. On the market in the U.S. since spring 2011, the

product is now being sold internationally in Canada, Europe and Japan.

A Class 1 medical device registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the

product has patent–pending status.

The Shower Shirt is sold online through Walmart.com’s medical–device division,

Health Products for You, Cancer Shops USA, Amazon, E–bay, and multiple mastectomy

boutiques and hospital–based home medical equipment locations across the nation,

including Health First Medical Equipment and Wuesthoff Home Medical, in Brevard

County.

For information, go to www.theshowershirt.com, or call 784–9363. To contact the

CCCF, call Fiol 426–5145 or mfiol@cancercarebrevard.com.

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BBN SPACE COAST BUSINESSNo disruption for ABI customers following fireat the warehouse in downtown Melbourne

A warehouse fire at American Business Interiors, 2015 S. Waverly Place in downtown

Melbourne, around 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 24, brought out more than two dozen

firemen from around South Brevard.

The Melbourne Fire Department is investigating the cause of the fire, which resulted

in extensive damage to the building located next to ABI. No one was injured.

Pamela Jackson, a sales representative with ABI, said the fire has not disrupted the

company’s operations.

“We would like our clients to know that we are up and are operational,” said Jackson,

who has worked for ABI for 15 years.

“Everything is running, including our servers. We are able to take deliveries, perform

our client duties, as far as installation, receive equipment and process orders. The fire has

not impacted our business, but we will probably have to work from a temporarily facility

for a few months. We will keep our clients informed.”

No damage estimates were available.

Greater Palm Bay Chamber to host ‘Mayor’sBreakfast’ on May 22 at the Holiday Inn Express

The Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce will host its spring “Mayor’s Breakfast”

at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 22, at the Holiday Inn Express, 1206 Malabar Road, in

Palm Bay.

Victoria Northrup, president and chief executive officer of the Chamber, said represen-

tatives from all cities and towns in South Brevard are invited to speak on topics concern-

ing their respective cities.

In addition, Senators Thad Altman and Mike Haridopolos and Congressman Bill Posey

have been invited to present as well as County Commissioners Andy Anderson, Mary

Bolin and Trudie Infantini.

Area mayors have been invited, too, including John Mazziotti from Palm Bay, Harry

Goode from Melbourne, Jim Hill from Sebastian, Tom Eschenberg from Malabar, Hal

Rose from West Melbourne, Del Yonts from Grant–Valkaria, Susan Adams from

Fellsmere and Tom Davis from Melbourne Beach.

“The attendance last year was fantastic,” said Northrup, “which is indicative that our

businesses are seeking information from their elected officials during these economic

times. As most of the invited officials have already confirmed attendance, we expect

another record turnout again this year.”

The Holiday Inn Express is a sponsor for the event. Northrup said the Chamber is

seeking additional sponsors for the program. The cost to attend is $10 for Chamber

members and $20 for guests. The event is open to the public.

SCWG and Screenwriters of Brevard to hostworkshop June 9–10 at Hilton Melbourne Rialto

The Space Coast Writers’ Guild and The Screenwriters of Brevard will present a

Screenwriter’s Workshop from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 9 and 10 at the Hilton Melbourne

Rialto, near Melbourne International Airport.

The featured speaker will be Chantelle Osman, president of A Twist of Karma

Entertainment, which is a screenplay consulting company.

Osman is also an author and attorney. Her experience includes have served as the

head of business affairs and development at Montage Films in Hollywood. Her experience

spans all aspects of the film industry. She will conduct three workshops.

The program’s guest speaker will be Sue Dontell, president of the Space Coast United

Filmmakers and Associates, and owner of Satori Productions Inc. Dontell is well known

among local independent filmmakers and is an award–winning director. She will reveal

tips on creating short films with tight budgets in her “Guerilla Indie Filmmaking”

presentation. Dontell has just released her latest Indie film, “Christmas Cop.”

Terry Cronin will also be presenting. Cronin is the program chairman of the annual

Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival. He has produced the short feature “Under

the Bridge,” with fellow filmmakers of 3 Boys Production.

The Screenwriter’s Workshop is designed for all levels of instruction.

The “early bird” rate is $60. After May 10, the rate is $70. For more information,

contact Dean Nagel at neg_lubbock@yahoo.com or call 266–3589. The web addresses are

www.scwg.org and screenwritersofbrevard.org.

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SPACE COAST BUSINESSMainstream Engineering wins a contractfrom NASA for thermal–control systems

ROCKLEDGE — Mainstream Engineering Corp., a 25–year–old research and

manufacturing company, has been awarded a contract from NASA to develop a miniature

thermal control system for space–based experiments.

A significant challenge faced by space–bound experiment packages is the need for a

controlled environment while the payload is awaiting launch or is in transit to the

International Space Station.

Before being loaded onto the ISS, experiments that contain perishable materials and

specimens can be compromised because of the conditions of the surrounding environment.

To address this challenge, NASA is seeking flight–qualified, environmentally conditioned

transportation systems capable of sustaining and extending the life of these experiments.

Mainstream said it has developed an advanced, active thermal–control system that

automatically provides heating or cooling to maintain a pre–determined set–point

temperature through the storage and transport of the space flight experimental packages

during transport to the spacecraft prior to launch.

The benefits of this advanced technology “extend well beyond experiments in space and

will benefit a wide range of thermal control applications,” including compact electronics

cooling and thermally controlled shipping containers.

Edge Information Management executives Gagnonand Fadden earn FCRA certification at conference

Edge Information Management Inc. in Melbourne, a provider of employment–

screening solutions, recently announced that Norm Gagnon, vice president of compliance

and operations, and Ryan Fadden, compliance administrator, have passed the Advanced

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) certification course.

During the 2012 National Association of Professional Background Screeners Annual

Conference, held April 15–17 in Nashville, Tenn., the organization offered the chance for

Consumer Reporting Agency attendees to participate in the Advanced FCRA certification

course. Participates must have first completed, and passed, the basic certification course

and examination.

The Edge employees were two of only 40 individuals awarded this advanced certifica-

tion. For their success, they were recognized during the conference.

“It is not surprising that Norm and Ryan have passed and achieved this accomplish-

ment so quickly,” said Joe Langford, president of Edge. “They were also one of the first

groups of individuals to pass the FCRA basic exam when it came available in November

2011. This exemplifies the seriousness in which they take their roles regarding compliance

within Edge and also represents the focus Edge places on this aspect of our service for our

clients.”

Edge Information Management, Inc., incorporated in 1991, is a national provider of

numerous employment screening solutions.

John Alpizar receives national recognitionamong his colleagues as a top trial attorney

Area attorney O. John Alpizar has been selected to the National Trial Lawyers’ list of

the “Top 100 Trial Attorneys in Florida.” His office is in Palm Bay. Alpizar is a personal

injury trial attorney at Alpizar Law, and devotes his time to helping injured victims and

families who have lost loved ones due to someone else’s carelessness or negligence.

The National Trial Lawyers is a professional organization comprised of America’s Top

100 Trial Lawyers from each state. Membership into this prestigious organization is by

special invitation only and is extended exclusively to those attorneys who exemplify

“superior qualifications, reputation, influence, stature, trial results, and leadership as trial

attorneys.”

Selection is based on a thorough multi–phase process, which includes peer nomina-

tions combined with third–party research.

This latest recognition follows Alpizar’s recent award from The Brevard County Bar

Association recognizing him as the recipient of the 2012 Brevard County Bar Association

Professionalism Award.

The award was presented to him at the organization’s recent annual luncheon. Federal

District Court Judge John Antoon made the presentation. In addition, in March, Alpizar

was also the recipient of the Lawyer of the Year Award from the Florida Puerto Rican

Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

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BBN SPECIAL FOCUSSBA 504 ProgramContinued from page 1

The maximum SBA loan amount is $5 million. Small

manufacturers or specific types of energy projects may

qualify for a $5.5 million debenture.

Cramer’s 23–year–old company has been involved in

many 504 deals, working with a range of area businesses,

from health care, including owners of assisted–living

facilities and funeral homes, to the hospitably industry,

specifically the hotel market. “Our loan portfolio is

diversified.”

The FBDC, with a growing roster of business clients in

Brevard County, has become the most active certified

development company nationwide, as measured by the

number of 504 loan approvals.

The National Association of Certified Development

Companies in Washington, D.C., compiles the statistics,

charting the more than 250 CDCs across the nation.

For fiscal year 2012, through March 31, the FBDC

processed 227 loans, making it the leader in Florida and

the nation in that particular category. FBDC’s loans are

valued at $137.8 million. The No. 2 CDC in the country

closed 219 loans and the third–ranked CDC closed 145.

“We are really excited about being the No. 1 CDC not

only in Florida but also in the U.S.,” said Cramer, a former

banker and Brevard resident. “The 504 program is

bouncing back strongly in our markets. We have topped

our goals for mid–year. We are six months into our

calendar year.”

For 2011, the FBDC made 365 loans totaling $189.9

million. Central Florida accounted for 55 loans totaling

$22.4 million and Brevard 13 loans for $2.8 million,

Cramer said. But 23 percent of the Central Florida loans

are tied to the Brevard market at an average loan amount

of $220,000, he said.

The FBDC has offices in Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando,

Lake Worth, and Miami. It also has locations in Atlanta,

Ga., and Montgomery, Ala. Cramer opened the offices in

Orlando and Montgomery for the company.

For the first quarter, Cramer says he’s looking at “six to

eight 504 loans” for small businesses. “Between Orlando

and Brevard, working with my colleague Rai Donelson

(FBDC vice president of development and a former banker)

I think we’re working on about 15 active deals. Demand is

surging.”

Cramer’s team includes Gisela Martinez, office

manager and funding coordinator, and former banker

Edgar Molina, assistant vice president, underwriter.

Molina has been with the Orlando office since it opened 10

years ago.

Locally, the FBDC works closely with a number of

banks and financial institutions participating in the 504–

loan program, including Regions, BankFirst, BB&T, Space

Coast Credit Union, Community Credit Union, Commu-

nity Bank of the South, Florida Business Bank, SunTrust,

and Chase. “Pretty much all of the banks in the area are

getting back into it,” he said.

Volusia and Flagler counties are sparking FBDC’s

growth, too. “There are a number of banks in those two

counties really embracing the program.”

Proceeds from 504 loans must be used for fixed–asset

projects, such as the purchase of existing buildings.

Cramer said small businesses that have been leasing their

space are now in the market looking to purchase a

building.

“Everything seems to be coming back onto the market

at adjusted prices. Businessowners who have stayed,

leasing their space through all of this, are now picking up

the deals,” he said. Even new construction is “coming back

a bit.”

Refinancing is one segment of 504 that is experiencing

strong growth, Cramer said.

Last year, the SBA implemented a temporary refinanc-

ing program, enacted under the Small Business Jobs Act of

2010, which allowed small businesses facing maturing

commercial real–estate mortgages or balloon payments

before Dec. 31, 2012, to refinance with an SBA 504 loan.

Cramer said declining real–estate values over the past

few years have had a negative impact on many small

businesses with mortgages maturing within the next few

years, and the refinancing program reaches out to them.

Under the Jobs Act, Congress authorized the SBA to

approve up to $7.5 billion in loans under this program (for

fiscal year 2012).

The temporary program, authorized until Sept. 12,

2012, is helping small businesses to secure stable, long–

term financing and avoid potential foreclosure on mort-

gages approved before and during the recession that were

based on “inflated real–estate values.”

“We just did a 504 refinancing for a businessperson in

Brevard County. Their mortgage payment decreased by

$3,000 a month,” he said.

To be eligible for the temporary 504 refinancing

program, a business must have been in operation for at

least two years.

The debt to be refinanced must be for owner–occupied

real estate and have been incurred no less than two years

prior to the date of application, and the proceeds used for

504–eligible business expenses, said Cramer.

In addition, payments on the debt must be current for

the last 12 months.

Cramer said the refinancing effort also helps small

businesses that have considerable “equity in their prop-

erty.”

Borrowers are able to finance up to 90 percent of the

current appraised property value or 100 percent of the

outstanding mortgage, whichever is lower, plus eligible

refinancing costs, he said.

The refinancing program plays a role protecting jobs at

small businesses, said Cramer. “It doesn’t create jobs, but

retains them. That is the whole purpose of the temporary

refinancing program.”

A number of years ago, the National Association of

Development Companies commissioned a study to

determine the economic impact of the SBA 504–loan

program.

The study, which was conducted by Applied Develop-

ment Economics Inc. and California State University,

found that the 504 program clearly provides a “cost–

effective” means by which to generate new business

activity for the national economy.

In addition, the corresponding increase in tax revenues

for the federal government is many times greater than the

funding requirement to administer the program. In actual

dollars invested, the financing provided to small busi-

nesses by the 504–loan program through certified develop-

ment companies represents a $94 return on each dollar of

program cost, the report said.

“The program is so vital because small businesses in

the U.S. are the lifeblood of the economy,” said Cramer.

“Collectively, they really do drive the economy in many

communities.”

As of February 2012, the $50 billion in 504 loans has

created more than 2 million jobs, according to SBA data.

?